Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

B vitamins—particularly B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin)—are commonly used in the management and prevention of peripheral neuropathy, with a moderate level of scientific evidence supporting their use. Peripheral neuropathy can result from deficiencies of these vitamins, and supplementation is well-established as an effective treatment for neuropathies caused by such deficiencies. For example, vitamin B12 deficiency is a recognized cause of subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord and peripheral neuropathy, and replenishing B12 can halt or even reverse nerve damage if caught early. Similarly, thiamine deficiency (as seen in alcoholics or malnourished individuals) can result in neuropathy, and thiamine supplementation is therapeutic in such cases. Vitamin B6 has a more complex relationship with neuropathy: both deficiency and excessive supplementation can cause neuropathy, so careful dosing is necessary. While B vitamin supplementation is clearly validated for neuropathy due to deficiencies, evidence for benefit in neuropathy of other causes (e.g., diabetic neuropathy) is more limited. Some studies suggest that B vitamins may help reduce symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, but results are inconsistent and often confounded by study quality and small sample sizes. Overall, the use of B vitamins in treating neuropathy is scientifically justified when a deficiency is present. Empirical use in other neuropathies should be approached with caution but may be considered due to their safety profile and biological plausibility.

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